Sunday, May 6 2012

Winsdor Castle

Sunday Morning we took the Metro Rail to Windsor Castle. It was a peaceful ride into the outskirts of London. At first, we waited in line to visit the Queen's Dollhouse. Once inside, I was blown away. The Dollhouse was enormous and very detailed. Also, there were dolls and their wardrobe displayed behind glass. As time progressed, we ended up touring the different rooms inside the castle. The audio tour explained the functions and the people who resided in each room. Each room had a story to tell within the castles rich history."Windsor Castle is an official residence of The Queen and the largest occupied castle in the world.The Queen uses the Castle both as a private home, where she usually spends the weekend, and as a Royal residence at which she undertakes certain formal duties"(The British Monarchy).
What I Learned: I learned that there was a fire that charred the floors and architects recycled the wood, so the original flooring is still there.

Tower of London

The Crown Jewels

After Leaving Windsor Castle, it was up to us to find our way to the Tower of London. We were particularly interested in seeing the Crown Jewels. The line was enormous but I understood why. The jewels on display were gorgeous! I was in awe the entire time. It showed crowns, capes, and other royal jewels. After the Crown Jewels, we made our way into the torture chamber. The chamber featured how people were punished back in earlier times. The Tower of London was built at the beginning of the 11th century by William the conqueror.Today the Tower of London is best known for its Crown Jewels.It used to be notorious for the many political opponents of the kings that were locked, tortured and killed in the Tower.(Tower of London)

What I Learned: I learned that there is a Beefeater guide who is a woman. She is the first woman to hold such position.

Tower Bridge

Nearby the Tower of London, stands the Tower Bridge. Tower Bridge was built from 1886–1894. It is a combined bascule and suspension bridge in London, England, over the River Thames. The Tower bridge if often mistaken with the London bridge because of their proximity.Tower Bridge is one of five London bridges now owned and maintained by the Bridge House Estates, a charitable trust overseen by the City of London Corporation. Today, The Tower Bridge has become an iconic symbol of London.( Tower Bridge)
What I Learned: I learned that the London Bridge was originally the only crossing for the Thames River.